17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.18 percent of the residents in 17361 has some form of health insurance. 34.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.61 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 17361 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17361. An estimate of 54 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 15,729 health care providers accessible to residents in 17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality for residents of Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17361). It focuses on evaluating the available resources, including physician availability, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all critical components of a holistic breast cancer care model. This evaluation aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, ultimately providing a framework for improving patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio within the 17361 ZIP code is a crucial first step. This involves assessing the number of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, radiologists, and primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment delays, and increased patient anxiety. Data on the average wait times for appointments with these specialists also needs consideration. High wait times can significantly impact the patient experience and potentially hinder timely interventions.

Primary care physicians are often the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. The availability of PCPs and their ability to provide comprehensive care, including breast cancer screening referrals, is vital. Assessing the number of PCPs per capita, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their commitment to preventative care practices, such as recommending mammograms and clinical breast exams, are all essential elements of this assessment. The proximity of these PCPs to the population within Shrewsbury also plays a role, as ease of access is a significant factor in healthcare utilization.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the 17361 ZIP code is crucial. This involves evaluating the facilities' accreditations, such as those from the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services. It also involves assessing patient satisfaction through surveys and reviews, which can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Identifying practices that offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and access to clinical trials, is essential. Examining the practice's commitment to patient education and support groups can also provide a deeper understanding of the care model.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to breast cancer care, especially in rural or underserved areas. Evaluating the extent to which physicians in the 17361 ZIP code utilize telemedicine is vital. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Examining the types of telemedicine platforms used, their ease of use, and their integration with existing electronic health records (EHRs) is essential. The availability of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and enhance patient convenience, ultimately improving the overall quality of care.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an integral part of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care within the 17361 ZIP code is vital. This includes evaluating the accessibility of these resources, including their insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the types of support offered, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including referrals from physicians and access to psycho-oncologists, is also a key consideration.

The analysis of primary care availability in Shrewsbury is equally important. This involves evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the area, their geographical distribution, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. It also involves assessing the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, which can be crucial for patients experiencing urgent symptoms or concerns. The PCPs' commitment to preventative care, including breast cancer screening referrals, is also a key factor. The integration of PCPs into a coordinated care network with specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also crucial for ensuring seamless patient care.

The availability of specialized services, such as breast cancer surgery and radiation therapy, within a reasonable distance of Shrewsbury is also a critical factor. This involves assessing the proximity of hospitals and cancer centers offering these services, the types of surgical procedures available, and the availability of radiation therapy options, including advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). The coordination between these specialized services and the patient's primary care physician is also a key consideration.

The analysis also needs to consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. This includes assessing the demographics of the population in the 17361 ZIP code, including income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation. Addressing disparities in access to care is essential for ensuring equitable outcomes for all patients. This may involve identifying and addressing barriers to care, such as financial constraints, transportation challenges, and language barriers.

In conclusion, a comprehensive breast cancer score for Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361) requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating physician availability, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by local practices. This analysis provides a foundation for understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Shrewsbury. It also highlights areas for improvement, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes and improve the overall healthcare experience for residents.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Shrewsbury, including physician locations, facility data, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and services, helping you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.